It was in the early 1960s that the Japanese macaques of upper Yokoyu Valley first discovered the joys of basking in thermal pools to alleviate the rigours of winter. Alas, their droppings did little for business, so the local hoteliers buil…

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Japan’s signature mix of energy and efficiency is nowhere more in evidence than the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo – one of the capital’s more off-beat visitor attractions. Its trading day begins at the crack of dawn, as the fishermen…

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Tucked away in the heart of Higashiyama old town on the eastern side of Kyoto, the Kodai-ji temple is sufficiently off track to remain serene even in high season. A Zen gravel garden leads to the diminutive shrine, which was founded 400 yea…

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For those with limited time in Kyoto, but who would still like to enjoy some 'hands-on' cultural experiences during their stay, Nishijin Tondaya Machiya is perfect. The history of this townhouse dates back to the Meiji Era of the mid-19th c…

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For many centuries, the Japanese have loved to bathe in natural, hot springs. Being located on the so-called 'Ring of Fire' leaves the country at the mercy of frequent earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions – and then there's the stre…

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Founded in the 9th century by Kobo Daishi (the monk historically credited with bringing Buddhism to the archipelago), the temple complex on Mount Koya is the oldest in the country. It is situated three hours from Kyoto, on a high plain surr…

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Featuring costumes to rival even the most lavish opera productions in the West, the ancient art of Japanese mime – Kabuki – is one of the most unforgettable theatrical forms on the planet. Plot lines invariably recount a convoluted, three-…

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During the Edo period (1603–1868), 'Five Routes' connected the capital of Japan with the outer provinces and extended the control of the ruling Shōgun of the time. One of these routes traversed the central mountains on Honshu island and has…

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